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Umang Agrawal - MSc Finance and Investment 2024

Umang studied an MSc in Finance and Investment and graduated from the University of Nottingham in 2024. He now works as a Research Analyst for Mint Finance, based in India. 

Umang’s interest in finance began through a friend, he recalled: “A friend introduced me to the Indian stock market, which sparked my curiosity about how money flows and how financial decisions shape economies. Aspiring to become an asset manager, studying finance was a natural next step.” 

Choosing Nottingham was a deliberate decision based on research and reputation. He explained: “I chose the University of Nottingham for its highly ranked, triple-accredited Business School and a finance curriculum aligned with Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Level 1 which was perfect for my future CFA ambitions.” 

The practical focus of the course was a highlight. Umang noted: “I especially enjoyed the course’s practical focus and using Bloomberg terminals, engaging with real data and connecting with peers from diverse backgrounds to build a strong finance network. The programme’s well-rounded structure and focus on sustainability truly stood out.”  

In his role as a Research Analyst, Umang tracks global markets, analyses how various economies and asset classes are performing, and assesses the feasibility of investing in them. His role involves turning data and trends into actionable insights to support informed investment decisions. He said: “My degree sharpened my financial acumen and taught me how to unite diverse perspectives into a single, strategic solution, which is crucial in my field. Tackling its tough curriculum taught me persistence - let’s just say, Excel sheets, financial software (such as Stata) and I are now on speaking terms!” 

Beyond academics, he embraced leadership opportunities. He added: “As a Course Representative, I also collaborated with faculty and peers, voicing student concerns and supporting academic initiatives. Additionally, I participated in several Students’ Union events, enriching my leadership, communication and teamwork skills beyond the classroom.” 

Adjusting to life in a new country brought challenges, but Umang embraced the experience. He reflected: 

Transitioning from corporate life to academia in a new country came with its challenges, like being away from family and adjusting to cultural differences, though I always felt supported. I joined societies such as the Business and Entrepreneurship Society, Public Speaking Society, and Private Equity Society, attending expert and alumni talks to expand my industry insight.

Support from the Careers and Employability Team also helped Umang prepare for the workplace. He explained: “I actively used their services for CV building and interview preparation. A standout experience was a networking workshop, where I learned how to confidently enter a room, introduce myself and identify approachable groups. It significantly boosted my communication skills and helped me overcome hesitation in professional settings.

His carefully chosen options further strengthened his expertise. He said: “Quantitative research methods sharpened my use of financial software and regression tools for strategy-building. Capital Markets taught me to price assets right. Derivatives showed me the art of hedging when risk runs wild, and my favourite, Behavioural Finance, helped me decode investor psychology and avoid the biases that quietly sabotage sound decisions.” 

Umang’s advice to new students is both practical and encouraging. He advised:  

Further information on Master's courses

To find out more about studying for an MSc at Nottingham University Business School, please visit our Master's webpage.